The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised Israeli citizens currently staying in the Maldives to consider leaving the country following the Maldivian government’s announcement of its decision to ban Israeli nationals from entering the country on Sunday.
Israel’s government recommended that its citizens refrain from travelling to the Muslim-majority Island nation, even if they hold a second passport from another country.
However, the Maldivian authority’s decision to ban Israeli nationals was deemed a sign of protest against Israel’s war in Gaza. A ban that was adopted during a cabinet meeting earlier on Sunday.
According to reports, the Maldives receives more than one million tourists annually, of which an estimated 15,000 come from Israel.
In response to the ban, the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman urged citizens to avoid travel to the island.
Israel also recommended its citizens consider India’s Lakshadweep Beach as a tour destination.
“For Israeli citizens staying in the country, it is recommended to consider leaving since if they fall into distress for any reason, it will be difficult for us to help,” the Israeli government said.
Meanwhile, the Maldivian President, Mohamed Muizzu, has announced a fundraising campaign called “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine”.